What Costs Are Involved with Memory Care?
Understanding what costs are involved with memory care is often one of the first questions families ask when a loved one begins showing signs of Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. The decision to transition to a memory care community is significant, and the financial implications can feel overwhelming without clear, compassionate guidance.
At Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living in Brookfield, Wisconsin, we understand that choosing the right community is not just about finding a safe place to live; it's about discovering a home where your loved one will be cherished, supported, and engaged every day. To help families navigate this journey with clarity, we’ve outlined everything you need to know about memory care costs and how to prepare for the financial side of this important decision.
What is Memory Care and Why Does It Cost More?
Memory care is a specialized form of support designed specifically for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Unlike general assisted living facilities or skilled nursing care, memory care communities are purposefully structured to provide a secure environment and specialized services tailored to preserve dignity and stimulate cognitive function in residents.
These services often include:
24/7 supervision and safety protocols
Assistance with personal care services like grooming, bathing, and medication management
Structured activities designed to maintain cognitive health
Specialized therapies including sensory stimulation and social engagement
Gourmet meals aligned with brain-healthy dietary plans like the MIND Diet
The combination of these features means memory care expenses are generally higher than traditional assisted living communities. At Lakewood, our all-inclusive, person-centered approach reflects the higher level of care and support our residents receive.
Average Monthly Cost of Memory Care
According to recent national data, the cost for memory care in the United States ranges from $5,000 to $9,000. However, prices vary widely depending on location, level of care, and the amenities offered.
At Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living, our starting price is $6,900 per month. This fee reflects our comprehensive, personalized care model and robust lifestyle offerings designed to support overall well-being and create a meaningful daily experience for our residents.
What’s Typically Included in the Cost of Memory Care?
When evaluating memory care communities or stand-alone facilities, it's important to understand exactly what’s included in the monthly fee. At Lakewood, our pricing is designed to offer peace of mind, without hidden or unexpected additional costs.
Here’s what families can expect:
Complete Personal Care Services
Our caregivers provide respectful and attentive support with daily routines including dressing, bathing, grooming, oral care, and more. Care is customized around each resident’s established habits to create a sense of familiarity and comfort.
Health Monitoring and Medication Management
Ongoing medical support is part of daily life at Lakewood. We help coordinate care, manage prescriptions, and monitor health changes to ensure each resident is receiving the right level of support.
Engaging Daily and Monthly Activities
From fitness classes and devotional readings to nature crafts and therapy dog visits, Lakewood offers enriching activities that stimulate the mind and body. Our calendar is designed to promote meaningful social connections and lifelong purpose.
Gourmet, Brain-Healthy Dining
Our MIND Diet-based menus support cognitive function and overall wellness. Residents enjoy three meals a day prepared to nourish the body from the inside out.
Safe, Beautiful Living Environment
With garden paths, family event spaces, and ionized air filtering for enhanced safety, our environment is designed to promote both physical and emotional wellbeing.
Variables That Influence Memory Care Costs
Understanding the factors that affect the cost of memory care can help families make informed decisions when comparing memory care facilities. Several key variables can influence monthly pricing:
Level of Care Needed
Residents requiring skilled nursing care, mobility assistance, or support with behavioral challenges may incur higher memory care expenses due to the staffing and expertise involved.
Room Type and Privacy
Private rooms typically cost more than shared suites. At Lakewood, each resident enjoys thoughtfully designed living spaces that balance privacy and comfort, with options tailored to individual needs.
Community Location
Geography plays a role in cost. Dementia care in larger metropolitan areas often comes with a higher price tag. However, communities like Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living in Brookfield offer exceptional care in a peaceful, charming location without the high overhead of urban living.
Amenities and Specialized Services
Not all living facilities offer the same services. Lakewood’s Montessori-based memory care program, Virtual Reality Therapy, and holistic wellness offerings are part of what makes our community truly exceptional, and they reflect the value of our all-inclusive approach.
Financial Support Options for Memory Care
Many families worry about how they’ll afford memory care, especially when transitioning from in-home care or relying on family caregivers. While not all options apply to every community, exploring financial assistance options may help some families prepare for the costs associated with memory care units.
Personal Savings and Private Funds
Most families pay for memory care using a combination of personal savings, private insurance, or funds from a life insurance policy or reverse mortgage.
Veterans Benefits and VA Support
Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for VA benefits through the Veterans Affairs Aid and Attendance program. This monthly stipend can help offset the cost of memory care for eligible individuals.
Social Security and Disability Insurance
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and other government income sources can also support ongoing care costs.
Medicare and Medicaid
While traditional Medicare doesn’t typically cover room and board in memory care communities, it may assist with inpatient hospital care, prescription drugs, or therapy services. Some Medicare Advantage Plans offer extended benefits for health care needs. Medicaid eligibility and coverage vary by state and often apply more directly to nursing home or skilled nursing facilities.
Questions to Ask When Comparing Memory Care Communities
A care survey of prospective communities should go beyond pricing alone. Ask about:
Staff training and ratios
Safety protocols and emergency procedures
Meal planning and dietary accommodations
Daily activity schedules and therapies
The approach to medication management and health monitoring
Support for dementia patients with advancing care needs
At Lakewood, we welcome families to take the time they need to ask questions and get to know our community. From your first visit, we strive to provide a transparent, compassionate experience so you feel confident and supported.
A Supportive Path Forward for Your Family
The average monthly cost of memory care reflects the comprehensive, daily support your loved one receives in a safe and engaging environment. While memory care costs can be significant, many families find peace of mind knowing their loved one is surrounded by compassionate care and meaningful connection.
At Lakewood Memory Care and Assisted Living in Brookfield, WI, we’re focused on creating a safe and supportive community where residents feel truly at home. If you’re wondering what costs are involved with memory care or exploring whether Lakewood is the right fit for your loved one, we invite you to get in touch or schedule a tour to see what makes our memory care community truly special.